The shores of Green Lake will play host to an activity this summer just a little different from its regular volleyball and water sports. One day each month Art on the Lake will feature artists and artisans from the Sea to Sky corridor in a casual, interactive environment with a stunning backdrop.
"It was an idea that I came back from Colorado with," says co-ordinator Grant Lamont. "In Steamboat, they have a big Art in the Park celebration that’s been going on for 15 years. And they had over 15,000 people come to town for it. It was set up with tents, exhibitors, jugglers. They had everything going on. It started from a small core of local artists looking for a place to showcase their talents."
Lamont admits he’s never really been involved in the Whistler arts community before now, although he has always been appreciative of art and ceramics. With the help of Vincent Massey’s artistic knowledge and the co-operation of Tim Malone and the Edgewater Outdoor Centre, Lamont is hoping to create an event that will draw both residents and visitors.
"One of the big things I’m noticing right now is the lack of community type activities that are affordable to do. Something to share. Something to get people to mix," says Lamont. "And of course the main thing it does is gives local artists a place to show their wares and interact with people. And in return it offers the chance for tourists to see real local work that they might not otherwise get the chance to see."
Massey, a long-time resident and artist, is charged with co-ordinating the actual artists. He has his own local gallery and stresses the need and value of just providing an outlet for the abundance of talent in the corridor.
"For the first one, I don’t think we’ll have the problem of too many artists. But if it’s successful, we may be lucky enough to find too many people wanting to be involved," says Massey.
The lawn at the Edgewater Outdoor Centre will house 20 to 30 participants per show. Food and refreshment will be available to encourage people to make a full afternoon of the event. And a large marquise tent will ensure the monthly show goes rain or shine.
Sunday, June 10 marks the debut of Art on the Lake, from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information , or if you’re an artist or artisan wishing to participate, call 932-6455 or 932-3389.
